Precice Stryde Method
One of the most modern intramedullary lengthening implants is the PRECICE Stryde system. It is made by the same firm that makes the Precice 2 Nail (NuVasive Specialised Orthopaedics (NSO)), and it has the exact same design, but different construction materials. These two most recent advanced nails differ just a little in terms of the nail’s composition. Precice 2 is made of titanium alloy, whereas Precice Stryde is made of steel, making it four times as strong as Precice 2 nail. The doctor may encourage patients to bear weight as tolerated earlier than we can with the Precice nail, which is crucial.
There are two devices utilized in the Precice Stryde method: External Remote Controller (ERC) and Internal Magnetic Fixators (Nails&Rods). An intramedullary nail or rod constructed of titanium alloy is used as internal fixation. By evaluating the X-ray scans, the nail’s size is determined (8.5 mm, 10.7 mm, 12.5 mm) It is surgically implanted into the bone cavity during the procedure. When the motor is turned on by an External Remote Controller (ERC), the device lengthens gradually, which in turn causes the bone to distract gradually.
Advantages of Limb Lengthening Surgery Precice Stryde Method
- A less intrusive procedure
- Less painful process compared to external methods (e.g. LON)
- No high-risk infection since the wounds heal quickly
- Less scarring
- Allowing more mobility than the other classical methods (e.g. Ilızarov)
- Allowing early return to daily routine and walk unaided compared to Precice 2
Disadvantages of Limb Lengthening Surgery with Precice Stryde Method
- Demanding a high price
- Not available currently because of recalling from the manufacturing company.
There are 5 phases in limb lengthening with the Precice Stryde method, and in each phase, you will see the steps in a timeline;
Pre-operative
Day 1-2:
- Being welcomed by your caretaker at the airport
- Checking in at the hotel and resting
- Meeting and having a face-to-face consultation
- Pre-op medical tests and Taking Orthorentgenogram X-ray
- Physical examination to assess flexibility and nail measurement to ensure the optimum size
- Have a complimentary Istanbul Tour to let your hair down
Intra-operative
Day 3: The Big Day!
Day 4: Follow-up visit by the surgeon and a short-walk
Day 5: Receiving physical therapy
Day 6: Relaxing
Day 7: Receiving physical and demonstration for lengthening
Day 8: Being discharged with a private ambulance
Post-operative (Lengthening Phase)
Day 9:Begining of distraction (1 mm per day for LON and 0,99 mm for Precice 2 and Stryde)
Day 10-90: The duration of the lengthening phase may vary depending on the planned amount of height achievement. In this course of time, the number of physiotherapy sessions is determined considering your general status. This phase is significant to regain mobility and functionality. You will be allowed to give full weight-bearing 3/4 weeks after the Precice Stryde lengthening surgery. Patients are not required to use a wheelchair in the course of the distraction phase because the nails are made of steel, and offer full weight-bearing capacity. Necessary medical care and painkillers will be provided throughout the lengthening phase. Follow-up visits will be done at the facility. X-rays are taken on a regular basis as well to ensure that early signs of potential complications can be caught in advance, and preventative measures are taken accordingly.
Pre-Consolidaiton Phase
Day 90-110: Once sufficient bone consolidation appears on the X-ray, instructions are given to the patients about how much pressure they can give during walking. (If there is a delay in bone consolidation, the duration not to give pressure on the legs may prolong)
Recovery phase (Bone-healing/Returning to Daily life)
Day 110-475: In this phase, patients are required to send X-rays at regular intervals so that the bone healing progress can be evaluated remotely. After the lengthening phase is over, they can move on to their daily routines freely. Doing any heavy physical exercise and sports are strictly not advised until the surgeon gives approval.
*Please note that the information and the duration shared in the timeline are to give an overall insight regarding the limb lengthening process. The process can be completed early or later than it is anticipated depending on the circumstances and amount of elongation planned to be achieved!